AP201 Agriculture Production Systems and Farm Management

DESCRIPTION

The unit describes the application of systems theory to animal and crop production as integrated management and production systems. The factors that influence the structure and functioning of agribusiness systems such as selection of crop and  livestock are analysed. The unit identifies the issues within both plant and animal production systems that affect the market  specifications of the intended product. The importance of green and sustainable agriculture in optimising production outcomes are explored. The unit includes 30 hours of work integrated learning experiences for students.

RELEVANT COURSES

Bachelor of Agribusiness*

*Core unit

CREDIT POINTS

10

DELIVERY MODE

On campus

PREREQUISITE OR CO-REQUISITE

Nil

UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES

LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of complex systems and apply systems analysis to agribusiness production and management

LO2 Analyse the factors that influence the structure and functioning of agribusiness systems

LO3 Critically examine the role of a range of industry structures

LO4 Apply agronomic theory to identify the issues within both plant and animal production systems that affect the market specifications of the intended product

LO5 Critique the structure and management of the farm as a business enterprise

CONTENT

  • Agricultural Production Systems
  • Crop Production Systems
  • Fundamentals of Agronomy
  • Farm Business Planning and Management
  • Managing systems sustainably
  • Fertilizers /nutrient management and Water use efficiency
  • Rural innovation to improve agriculture systems
  • Fundamentals of crop management
  • Animal Production Systems
  • Management of meat production, Genetics and Breeding of livestocks
  • Reproductive management and Grazing Management
  • The Farm and sustainable resource management including Changing climate

ASSESSMENT METHODS

  1. Online Quizzes – 20%
  2. Assessment – 30%
  3. Exam – 50%

PRESCRIBED READINGS

Snapp, S. and Pound, B. eds., 2017. Agricultural systems: Agroecology and rural innovation for development.  Academic Press.

Check with the lecturer each semester before purchasing any textbooks